Alexander Gerry

Alexander Aloysius Cruickshank Gerry, at 85, peacefully passed away on December 16, 2016, while listening to his wife, Amada Gerry (Ayub), sing to him. Recently, they celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary. Alexander is survived by his loving wife and three children - Priscilla, Adrian and Marisol - each of whom had the privilege to spend time with him in his final hours. Alexander is also survived by his grandchildren that make him so happy and proud - Elizabeth "Libby", Emma, Sophia, Peter Alexander, Vanessa and Leonardo. At the gates of heaven, Alexander's parents, Harold Joseph Cruickshank Gerry and Agnes Catherine Gerry (O'Keeffe), and his brothers, William "Peter" Gerry and Harold "Haddy" Gerry, embrace him. Alexander is survived by four siblings, Astrid Daly, James Gerry, Josephine Gerry and Carolina Willis.

A native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Alexander graduated from Wofford College with a BS in Mathematics and was commissioned as an infantry officer through ROTC in 1952. He served in the 24th Infantry Division in Korea and the 82nd Airborne Division until 1954. In 1955, Alexander completed studies at the Sorbonne in Paris, France. He taught the following years as Professor of English and Military Science at the French War College in Paris. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Alexander worked as Technical Director on various films; notably, Kelly's Heroes, Castle Keep, and Catch 22.

In 1972, Alexander's life expanded when he married Amada and then continued by adding to the clan his three children. With his family, he traveled to Heidelberg, Germany for four years to serve as the first Senior Reserve Advisor to the Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Army Europe. Returning to the United States, Alexander completed his active military career as the Director, CIOR Military Competitions at Ft. Meade before retiring in October, 1982. Alexander retired at the rank of Colonel. During his military career, Alexander was honored many times, including being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and Legion of Merit.

During civilian life, Alexander continued serving Reservist and their critical role to national defense at the Reserve Officers Association (ROA). With over 20 years at the ROA, Alexander retired as the Director of International Relations and Public Affairs. Alexander also made many contributions to CIOR, the world's largest international military reserve officer organization. He served as the Assistant Secretary General for the United States and was key to the development of the Unión Pan American Union of Armed Forces Reserve Officers (UPORFA). For his extraordinary contributions to CIOR was awarded the CIOR Medal of Merit.

Alexander's passion for languages, reading, writing and international affairs served him well throughout his life. He mastered seven languages, English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Serbo-Croatian and Italian, and dabbled in many other languages, including Greek and Latin. He spent many of his years in Paris, France and traveled throughout Europe, Post-Soviet States and Latin America. His extensive and insightful writings graced The Officer Magazine published by the ROA. His articles on several occasions were distributed on the Hill to fulfill ROA's Congressional Charter to advise and educate the Congress, the President, and the American people on national security.

Alexander dedicated his life to healthy living. He competed for the US Delegation to the CIOR, winning numerous awards in their military pentathlon (even at the age of 41). His diet, impeccable. His workouts, consistent and rigorous. Even in his 70s and 80s, he inspired many with his daily training of long distance runs, road biking, weight training and tennis. Alexander challenged others to focus more on their well-being.

Alexander's commitment to his mind and body pales in comparison to his spiritual dedication. As a devoted Catholic his entire life, he never missed mass. The Church and prayer always played a center role in his life. The stories of Padre Pio, Saint Francis of Assisi and other Saints humbled him. He was happiest when his children sat next to him in the pews.

When not working, Alexander spent his time with his wife and family. With his family, he shared his creative side and his wonderful laugh. Alexander enjoyed working with his hands - building models, doing property improvements and tinkering with cars. As an amateur artist, he painted many portraits and landscapes. He found inspiration playing the piano and strumming the guitar. He loved the outdoors and sharing his passion for sport and active play.

Alexander was many wonderful things not expressed in this obituary. Most of all we thank him for being a good husband, cherished father and loved grandfather, and to others, a dear friend.

The viewing will be held on December 21, 2016 at Singleton Funeral Home from 3PM to 7PM. A funeral mass will take place on December 22, 2016 at 1PM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. His remains will be buried Crownsville Maryland Veterans Cemetery with military honors.

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